Pigeon shoots 'grotesque' form of enjoyment

The pigeon shoot in Hegins Township, Schuylkill County, ended years ago, but the state Legislature has yet to make it illegal to hold such shoots in the state.

The pigeon shoot in Hegins Township, Schuylkill County, ended years ago, but the state Legislature has yet to make it illegal to hold such shoots in the state. (KEVIN SHIRE, Morning Call File Photo)

Opinion: What pigeon shoots say about humanity

I was very disappointed, to say the least, about the defeat of House Bill 1750, which I read in Bill White's column, "Frightened legislators buried pigeon shoot bill." Legislators were fearful of the National Rifle Association wrath.

As reported in the column, it will still be legal to raise dogs and cats for human consumption, to "hunt" tethered animals and to shoot away at pigeons released into the air. All this for the shooting pleasure of "fat-bottomed Elmer Fudds."

This is in stark contradiction to the will of 75 percent of Pennsylvanians who want these pigeon shoots banned. What a grotesque way for people seeking to enjoy themselves. Humanity still has a long way to go.

White was very kind in his "fat-bottomed Elmer Fudds" description of those who enjoy this pastime. The legislators who prevented this bill from a House vote also deserve this title and share in the responsibility for the continued and unnecessary suffering of these animals.